New Delhi, June 3 -- A school student has petitioned the National Green Tribunal (NGT), highlighting the harmful effects of airborne dust generated during street sweeping and its impact on public health. The petition states that the widespread feeding and proliferation of pigeons across Delhi-NCR result in excessive droppings accumulating on footpaths, pavements, and traffic islands.

When these areas are broomed, toxic particles from dried droppings mix with the dust, further polluting the environment and posing significant health risks.

The applicant contends that exposure to these pollutants can lead to serious lung diseases, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis--an inflammatory condition that causes lung scarring and breathing diff...